Explore Bend
Downtown Bend
Our favorite go-to spots to hang out in Bend are our beloved historic downtown. You can be sure to find the cutest boutiques, unique bars, the best food, and take a stroll through the beautiful Drake Park. Breakfast/Coffee: Lemon Tree – Best benedicts! Blissful Spoon- Globally inspired breakfast & lunch. Watershed Coffee Roasters- Cottage-style café & pastries. Thump Coffee- espressos Lunch: Valentine's Deli- The best! Plankers Sandwiches- Warm & cold sandwiches. Brother John's- Pub style grub & brews. Pizza Mondo- Pizza by the slice. Dinner: Zydeco- The couple's favorite! Pine Tavern- Favorite since 1936- with a Ponderosa Pine growing inside. Americana- best smash burger! Five Fusion Sushi- best sushi! Brews/Wines: Bend Brewing Company- Brewery since 1995. Deschutes Brewery- The OG of Bend’s craft beer scene. McMenamins- A must-see, old-school style pub. Find the secret bar at night! Willamette Valley- Delish wine & cheese boards Stoller Wine- A favorite- Brooke worked here!
Old Mill District
This spot was our first date! Old Mill District is the perfect area to walk, shop, eat, drink, catch a movie, and watch the floaters float by. Our favorite restaurants: Lady Bird Cultural Society Vibe: Retro, stylish, and glamorous lounge. Drinks: Happy Hour from 3–5 PM. Food: Shared plates and wood-fired pizza! Anthony’s at the Old Mill District Vibe: Relaxed, elevated dining- patio facing the river. Drinks: Happy Hour Mon–Fri (3–6:30 PM) Food: NW seafood, steaks, and seasonal produce. Greg’s Grill Vibe: Scenic and casual dining- patio facing the river. Drinks: Full bar and happy hour. Food: Pub fare with local NW flavors. Pastini Vibe: Cozy casual Italian spot- patio facing the river. Drinks: Daily Happy Hour (3–5:30 PM). Food: Pasta, antipasti, gluten-free, and kid-friendly options. M’s Bakery Vibe: Charming café perfect for casual mornings/ light lunches. Drinks: Lattés, local coffee, and teas. Food: Daily-baked pastries, breads, soups, and sandwiches.
Cascade Lakes Highway
The Cascade Lakes Highway is one of Central Oregon’s most scenic byways, winding through alpine forests and past dozens of crystal-clear mountain lakes, with stunning views of the Cascade Range. May require permits. Top Hikes: Sparks Lake Trail Distance: 2.5 miles (loop) Difficulty: Easy Highlights: Panoramic views of South Sister and Broken Top. Todd Lake Trail Distance: 1.5 miles (loop around the lake) Difficulty: Easy Highlights: Serene alpine lake, wildflowers in late summer, and picnic spots. Green Lakes Trail Distance: 9 miles round trip Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging Highlights: Follows Fall Creek with waterfalls and ends at stunning alpine lakes between South Sister and Broken Top. Top Lakes: Sparks Lake Activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding Access: Short walk from parking and picnic areas. Elk Lake Activities: Swimming, boating, paddleboard/kayak rentals, and dining. Devil’s Lake Activities: Kayaking, fishing, and short hikes.
Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort
Just about 20 minutes from downtown Bend, Mt. Bachelor transforms its frosty slopes into a multi-activity summer haven! Chairlift Rides- Start at 6,300 ft and climb to 7,775 ft to Pine Marten Lodge. The 10-minute ride will show panoramic views of the Cascade Range, including Sisters and Broken Top mountains. Sunset Dinners- Enjoy elevated dining with breathtaking views at the top of Mt. Bachelor. A unique experience you won't forget. Mountain Biking- The resort features an all-season bike park with over 13 miles of downhill trails. Zipline- Starting at 7,800 ft above tree line and over three zip stages—making it one of the NW's steepest and most thrilling ziplines. Disc Golf- 18-hole PDGA-listed disc golf course. Begin at the top of the Pine Marten chairlift and wind your way downhill across varied terrain. Hiking- Enjoy winding through pine trees and open meadows from the base of the lodge to the mid-mountain, with the option to ride the lift back down.